HBCUs with Medical School Programs

Photo courtesy of Meharry Medical CollegeCareers in the medical field are and have always been some of the most secure and highest-paying options. Even as the recession still affects most of the United States, medical careers remain relatively stable. There are more opportunities than qualified graduates in most areas of the country, making a medical school degree a highly sought-after qualification.

The Road to Medical School

Like many other specialized degrees, medical degrees require specific preparation. In order to be admitted to medical school, there are some universal steps which must be completed. Keep in mind that these are in addition to the varying requirements of each individual university.
In order to qualify for admittance to medical school, students must successfully complete a pre-med program at an accredited college. They must pass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), prepare and submit an application and, if selected, attend an in-person admittance interview.

Counselors at colleges which offer pre-med programs can be invaluable in helping students prep for medical school admittance. They have access to many helpful study materials and guides and can help students in preparing applications. Students should also be aware that some schools offer courses specifically designed to help prep for medical school admittance; if you’re preparing for a career in medicine, these schools are often a very smart choice.

High school students focused on a medical career should remember to take as many advanced and college-level courses as possible, with a special focus on science and math.

In the world of HBCUs, three campuses offer full medical programs. The following schools can help you achieve your dreams of a medical career, regardless of which field interests you the most.

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is a WASC accredited, private, non-profit school located in Willowbrook, unincorporated Los Angeles County, CA. It was founded in 1966 in response to inadequate medical facilities within the Watts region of Los Angeles. Undergraduate and certificate programs include Associate of Science in Health Information Technology, Associate of Science in Radiography, Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences and Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Pre-Medicine. Charles Drew also offers three graduate programs: Master of Public Health (MPH) in Urban Public Health, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Howard University College of Medicine

Located in Washington, D.C., Howard University was established in 1868, making it the oldest HBCU medical school. It is fully accredited by all necessary organizations and admits approximately one hundred new students each year. Howard offers the traditional Doctor of Medicine as well as graduate degrees in biomedical sciences and dual-degree options.

Meharry Medical College

Established in 1876, Meharry Medical College is associated with the United Methodist Church but open to all applicants. Meharry is divided into three distinct schools, offering medicine, dentistry, and graduate biomedical sciences at their Nashville, Tennessee campus.

Morehouse School of Medicine

A relative newcomer in the HBCU world, Morehouse’s medical school has only been in operation since 1981. Previously, the medical education program existed only as a two-year degree. Currently, Morehouse offers a full medical education, fully accredited by all necessary organizations. The campus is located in Atlanta, Georgia and offers students Doctor of Medicine program, as well as a Master of Public Health program. Graduate degrees in biomedical sciences are also available.